Odisha Focuses On Market-Linked Construction Material Rates For Public Projects

Bhubaneswar: The Odisha Government has initiated steps to streamline the fixation of construction material prices in a bid to improve transparency, ensure quality standards and facilitate the timely execution of infrastructure projects across the state.

A high-level review meeting chaired by Works Department Principal Secretary Sanjay Kumar Singh was held at Lok Seva Bhawan on Saturday to assess the mechanism for determining rates of materials used in the construction of roads, bridges, buildings and other public infrastructure.

The meeting focused on evolving a realistic and scientific pricing framework that reflects prevailing market conditions while ensuring the use of quality materials in government projects. Officials said the exercise is expected to enhance accountability in project implementation, prevent cost discrepancies and support the efficient utilisation of public resources.

Detailed discussions were held on notifications and rate schedules issued by various central and state agencies, including the Central Public Works Department (CPWD), Ministry of Road Transport and Highways, State Labour Commission, Odisha Forest Development Corporation, Indian Oil Corporation Limited (IOCL), Hindustan Petroleum Corporation Limited (HPCL) and Bharat Petroleum Corporation Limited (BPCL).

The review covered pricing methodologies for key construction inputs such as sand, stone aggregates, cement, bricks and bitumen, along with electrical equipment, furniture and other materials commonly used in infrastructure projects. Officials also deliberated on procedures for ensuring that the rates adopted by departments remain accurate and aligned with market realities.

Emphasising the importance of completing the exercise at the earliest, Singh directed concerned officials to expedite the process so that ongoing and future infrastructure projects are not affected by delays in rate fixation.

The Principal Secretary also stressed that a transparent and updated pricing mechanism would contribute to better planning, improved quality control and smoother implementation of development works across the state.